Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Should you spend 1 or 2 weeks in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Many visitors spend two to five days in Oaxaca de Juarez during their trip. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because your journey calls for making the most of every moment. The city offers the chance to spend time at the museums, browse around the old town, sample the delicious cuisine, and find the best deals at the shops.
Oaxaca is the largest city in a state of the same name. It is a city that is rich in history and culture, and it's listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many colonial and ancient sites both in town and nearby. The city also has a long culinary tradition with many local flavors.
Do you have one or two weeks to visit Oaxaca de Juarez? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is one week enough time in Oaxaca de Juarez?
One week is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Oaxaca de Juarez, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. Enjoy the chance to spend time at the museums, browse around the old town, sample the delicious cuisine, and find the best deals at the shops on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Oaxaca de Juarez as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding area.
How to spend a week in Oaxaca de Juarez
Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.
The culinary scene in Oaxaca de Juarez is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.
A few tour suggestions include:
- AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local. ($108)
- Earth, Corn & Fire: Tasting the Roots of Oaxacan Cuisine ($115)
- The Late Shift: Tasting Oaxaca, by Night ($115)
Oaxaca de Juarez is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Oaxaca city bike ride - History & traditions ($39)
- 5 Hours Guided Day of The Dead Evening Walking Tour in Oaxaca ($109)
- Private Oaxaca Walking Tour: Xoxocotlán Day of the Dead Altars ($185)
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Oaxaca Pub Crawl ($17)
The public transit in Oaxaca de Juarez is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.
Shopping in Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Oaxaca de Juarez.
Don't miss Mercado Benito Juárez during your trip to Oaxaca de Juarez, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
After you've explored most of Oaxaca de Juarez, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Mezcal Distillery Day Trip ($134)
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Oaxaca de Juarez.
Even more time is needed here to explore the old town with its many shops, restaurants, landmarks, and charming atmosphere. Find those local spots that are perfect for the local charm and cuisine.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Because this is a world-class shopping destination, you'll need yet another day to find the best deals. Each area of Oaxaca de Juarez offers a different vibe and atmosphere, and along with it, different styles of shops.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Oaxaca de Juarez.
Is 2 weeks enough time in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Two weeks is more than enough time to see everything that Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer. Many visitors prefer to spend two to five days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the famous sights and museums, the historic old town, the food, and the many shops at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.
Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico
How to spend 2 weeks in Oaxaca de Juarez
With 2 weeks in Oaxaca de Juarez, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy everything the city has to offer at your own relaxed pace. You'll want to spend plenty of time perusing the musuems, exploring the historic town, dining at local restaurants, and browsing the shops. You can also relax at your hotel, or casually explore this city looking for hidden gems. Also, consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations where you can explore more of the region.
A few trip suggestions:
- Mezcal Distillery Day Trip ($134)
More Info
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